Self-esteem: A self-social construct

Defines self-esteem within a context of self-other orientation, and describes an instrument which is designed to measure the evaluation of the self in relation to significant others using topological representations of self and others and involving limited verbal demands. Results of a program of research are described which emanate from an evolving theory of social self-esteem. Results suggest that self-acceptance and social acceptance are inextricably combined and raise serious doubts about the meaning of earlier results concerning self-esteem which were based upon verbal self-reports. (40 ref.)